St. Bernard Preparatory School honored its Class of 2026 during the annual Senior Dedication Mass on Thursday, Oct. 2, at the Abbey Church. The liturgy, held on the feast of the Guardian Angels, included the traditional blessing of the senior class and the presentation of senior crosses, marking a spiritual milestone for the school’s graduating class.

The Mass was celebrated by Father Joel Martin, O.S.B., president of St. Bernard Prep, who reflected in his homily on the powerful presence of angels. “Angels are amazing,” he said. “They come in when we need them the most.” Father Joel also reminded students to be grateful for the many people whose sacrifices make their education possible — parents, teachers, classmates, and benefactors.

A highlight of the celebration was the blessing and presentation of the Benedictine crosses, conferred by Father Joel, Headmaster Phuong Nguyen, and Assistant Headmaster Father Dominic Lee. Father Joel explained the significance of the medal embedded within each cross, noting its ancient Latin inscriptions that serve as reminders of faith and protection. Pointing to the statue of St. Benedict in the church, he urged seniors to take to heart the first word of the Rule of St. Benedict: Listen.

Following the homily, Headmaster Nguyen called each senior forward by name as faculty and staff stood in unity behind them. Together with Father Joel, they prayed over the class, asking God’s blessing as the seniors step into their role as leaders and role models within the school community.

The Class of 2026 actively participated in the Mass. Katie Chamblee, senior class president, offered a response on behalf of her classmates. Senior Class Vice President Ben Gil gave the first Scripture reading. Sarah Woods, senior and Student Government Association (SGA) president, led the intercessions. The offertory gifts were presented by Kimberly McCormick, class secretary; Ella Tombo, class treasurer; Anna Agnello, SGA representative; Luke Daly, SGA Secretary; and Alex Chavez, SGA treasurer.

The Knights of the Altar, led by Grand Supreme Knight Luke Daly along with seniors Alex Chavez, Parker Guthery, and Josh Marks, assisted at the altar. The liturgy was enhanced by sacred music under the direction of Sister Therese Lopez, L.I.H.M., as the school’s choral program filled the Abbey Church with angelic harmonies.

Following the dedication, lunch was provided for the seniors and their families in the Abbey Byre.

The Senior Dedication Mass is one of the most cherished traditions at St. Bernard Prep. It symbolizes the passing of leadership and responsibility to the senior class as they begin their final year of formation, preparing to fulfill the school’s mission for students: Created for greater things.